Based on looking at the website, Saxonpackaging.co.uk appears to be a well-established manufacturer specializing in bespoke and standard corrugated cardboard packaging solutions.
The site presents itself as a part of the Smurfit Westrock Group plc, indicating a significant industry presence and backing.
The core offering revolves around custom cartons, including specialized options for beer and drinks, e-commerce, and quick assembly packaging, all with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what Saxon Packaging offers, based on the information available on their official website.
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Saxonpackaging.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon initial inspection, Saxonpackaging.co.uk presents a clear and professional interface.
The navigation is straightforward, offering quick access to “Packaging Products,” “Print Processes,” “About,” “Blog,” and “Request A Quote.” The homepage prominently features their key product categories, such as beer packaging, corrugated cardboard boxes, and drinks packaging, making it easy for visitors to identify relevant solutions.
The inclusion of customer testimonials, like that from Cian Quilty of Sailor’s Home, adds a layer of credibility, highlighting their ability to translate design potential into reality and create impact at the point of sale.
Website Navigation and User Experience
The website’s layout is intuitive, allowing for easy exploration of their services.
Key sections are well-organized, and the “Expand” functionality for certain categories like “Packaging Products” and “Blog” suggests a hierarchical structure designed to prevent information overload while still providing depth.
The “Skip to main content” link at the top is a nice touch for accessibility, indicating attention to user convenience.
Visual Appeal and Brand Presence
The site’s visual design is clean and functional, utilizing clear imagery of their packaging solutions.
The brand message focuses on “sustainable packaging solutions” and “boosting your bottom line,” aligning with current industry trends and business priorities.
Being part of Smurfit Westrock Group plc is a significant brand asset, which they wisely highlight, lending immediate authority and trust.
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Features
Saxon Packaging offers a robust set of features centered around their core competency: custom corrugated packaging. Wildling.com Reviews
Their capabilities extend beyond basic box manufacturing, incorporating design, various print processes, and solutions tailored for specific industries like beverages and e-commerce.
Bespoke and Standard Packaging Solutions
Saxon Packaging prides itself on its ability to produce both bespoke and standard cardboard packaging boxes.
This flexibility is crucial for businesses with unique branding or product protection requirements.
Their manufacturing facility, established in 1986, is described as “comprehensive and modern,” suggesting advanced machinery and processes.
- Customization: They offer custom cartons for various needs, from luxury gift items to mail-order delivery packaging.
- Material: Focus on corrugated cardboard, known for its strength and versatility.
- Applications: Solutions span across diverse sectors, ensuring products are protected and presented effectively.
Specialized Packaging Categories
The website highlights several specialized packaging categories, indicating a deep understanding of industry-specific needs.
- Beer Packaging: Designed for Beer, Ale & Cider, and other fermented beverages, focusing on protection and customer delight. This niche specialization suggests expertise in handling fragile and liquid products.
- Drinks Packaging: Broader category for sustainable solutions that aim to drive growth for beverage brands.
- eCommerce Packaging: Innovative solutions designed to boost brand recognition and enhance the customer’s unboxing experience, which is critical in the competitive online retail space.
- Quick Assembly Packaging: Engineered to cut labor costs and speed up the packing process, a significant advantage for businesses looking to improve operational efficiency.
Print Processes
While not detailed extensively on the homepage, the mention of “Print Processes” implies that Saxon Packaging offers various printing options to customize packaging.
This is vital for branding, product information, and visual appeal, allowing businesses to create impactful point-of-sale materials. Common print processes in packaging include:
- Flexographic Printing: Cost-effective for large runs, good for simple designs.
- Lithographic Printing: Offers high-quality graphics, suitable for premium packaging.
- Digital Printing: Ideal for short runs, variable data, and quick turnarounds.
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Pros & Cons
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any service is crucial for potential clients.
Based on the website’s content, Saxon Packaging exhibits several notable advantages and some areas where more information could be beneficial.
Pros
Saxon Packaging’s strengths lie in its established reputation, comprehensive offerings, and customer-centric approach. Deintortenbild.de Reviews
- Established Expertise: Founded in 1986, with nearly four decades of experience in packaging manufacturing. This longevity suggests reliability and deep industry knowledge.
- Comprehensive Product Range: Offers a wide variety of bespoke and standard corrugated products, from simple boxes to luxury gift items and specialized e-commerce solutions. This breadth of options caters to diverse client needs.
- Part of a Larger Group: Being part of the Smurfit Westrock Group plc provides significant resources, expertise, and a strong logistical network. Smurfit Westrock is a global leader in paper-based packaging, implying high standards and capacity.
- Customer-Centric Approach: The inclusion of customer testimonials and the emphasis on “delighting customers” and “boosting brand” indicates a focus on client satisfaction and tangible business outcomes.
- Specialized Solutions: Their focus on beer, drinks, and e-commerce packaging shows a deep understanding of specific market needs, offering tailored rather than generic solutions.
- Efficiency-Boosting Products: Quick assembly packaging directly addresses a pain point for many businesses—labor costs and packing time—offering a clear value proposition.
Cons
While the website is informative, certain aspects could be enhanced to provide a more complete picture for potential clients.
- Limited Transparency on Pricing: The website does not offer any direct pricing information or even an estimated range. Clients must “Request a quote,” which, while common for bespoke solutions, can be a hurdle for those looking for quick comparisons or budgeting.
- Lack of Detailed Case Studies: While testimonials are present, more in-depth case studies illustrating specific challenges solved and measurable results achieved would further strengthen their value proposition. For instance, data on how quick assembly packaging reduced labor costs by a certain percentage for a client would be highly impactful.
- No Online Design Tool or Instant Quote: Many modern packaging providers offer online tools for design mock-ups or instant quotes for standard products. Saxon Packaging’s approach appears more traditional, requiring direct consultation for all inquiries. This might deter smaller businesses or those seeking faster service.
- Limited Information on Print Processes: While “Print Processes” is a menu item, the homepage doesn’t elaborate on the types of printing offered or their capabilities. This crucial detail for branding and aesthetics is largely absent.
- Geographic Focus Ambiguity: While based in the UK indicated by the .co.uk domain and UK phone number, the website doesn’t explicitly state their service area or if they handle international orders. This could be a consideration for businesses outside the UK.
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Alternatives
For businesses exploring packaging solutions, several reputable companies offer similar services, each with its own specializations and strengths.
When considering alternatives to Saxon Packaging, factors like regional presence, specialization, and online tools often come into play.
DS Smith
One of the largest corrugated packaging companies globally, DS Smith offers a vast range of packaging solutions, including e-commerce, industrial, and retail packaging.
They are known for their sustainability initiatives and innovative design capabilities.
- Strengths: Global reach, strong focus on sustainable design and recycling, extensive product portfolio, and sophisticated design centers.
- Target Audience: Large enterprises and companies requiring complex, high-volume packaging solutions.
- Key Differentiator: Their “Circular Design Principles” emphasize packaging that can be reused, recycled, or biodegraded.
Macfarlane Packaging
As one of the UK’s largest packaging distributors, Macfarlane Packaging offers a comprehensive range of packaging materials, equipment, and services.
They cater to a broad spectrum of industries and often act as a single source for all packaging needs.
- Strengths: Wide stock product range, national distribution network in the UK, packaging machinery and automation services, and expert advice.
- Target Audience: Businesses of all sizes looking for both stock and custom packaging, often with a need for a diverse range of ancillary packaging products.
- Key Differentiator: Their focus on distribution means they can offer a wider variety of packaging types beyond just corrugated, including protective packaging, tapes, and labels.
Kite Packaging
A prominent online packaging supplier in the UK, Kite Packaging is known for its extensive range of stock packaging products available for immediate dispatch.
They also offer bespoke solutions and have a strong e-commerce presence.
- Strengths: User-friendly online store, competitive pricing for stock items, fast delivery, and a good selection of industry-specific packaging.
- Target Audience: Small to medium-sized businesses, e-commerce businesses, and individuals who need quick access to standard packaging products.
- Key Differentiator: Their strong online platform and focus on readily available stock make them ideal for businesses with recurring needs for common packaging items.
Other Notable Alternatives
- Boxed Up Packaging: Another UK-based provider specializing in custom printed boxes and various packaging materials.
- The Cardboard Box Company: Offers bespoke cardboard boxes and packaging solutions with an emphasis on customer service.
When choosing an alternative, it’s essential for businesses to assess their specific needs: volume requirements, customization level, budget, lead times, and sustainability goals. Hypercarry.store Reviews
While Saxon Packaging excels in bespoke corrugated solutions, these alternatives may offer different advantages depending on the project scope.
How to Request a Quote from Saxonpackaging.co.uk
Requesting a quote from Saxonpackaging.co.uk is a straightforward process, prominently featured on their website.
As custom packaging solutions typically involve unique specifications, direct communication is necessary to get an accurate price.
Steps to Obtain a Quote
The “Request a quote” option is consistently available across the website, ensuring easy access.
- Locate the “Request A Quote” Button: This button is visible in the main navigation menu and often repeated in prominent sections of the homepage, such as after customer testimonials or at the bottom of product descriptions.
- Click the Button: Clicking this will likely lead to a dedicated contact form or provide contact details.
- Provide Necessary Details: While the exact fields of their quote form are not shown, typically, you would need to provide:
- Contact Information: Your name, company name, email address, and phone number.
- Packaging Requirements:
- Type of packaging e.g., beer box, e-commerce carton, standard box.
- Dimensions length x width x height in mm or inches.
- Quantity required e.g., 500, 1000, 5000+.
- Print specifications e.g., number of colors, print coverage, specific designs.
- Material specifications e.g., single wall, double wall, specific board grade.
- Any special features e.g., inserts, windows, quick assembly features.
- Delivery Information: Required delivery date or any specific logistical needs.
- Additional Notes: Any other relevant information or questions.
- Submit the Request: Once all details are filled in, submit the form.
- Await Response: Saxon Packaging’s team will review your request and typically get back to you with a tailored quote or to ask for more information.
Tips for a Faster and More Accurate Quote
- Be Specific: The more details you provide upfront, the more accurate and quicker the quote will be. Avoid vague descriptions.
- Have Dimensions Ready: Precise measurements are crucial for packaging quotes.
- Know Your Quantity: The volume of your order significantly impacts unit cost.
- Consider Your Budget If Applicable: While not always requested, having a rough budget can help guide discussions if there are multiple material or design options.
- Provide Design Files: If you have existing artwork or a design brief, mentioning its availability or attaching it if the form allows can expedite the process.
- Clarify Lead Times: If you have a strict deadline, communicate it clearly.
Requesting a quote directly ensures that businesses receive a price tailored to their exact needs, which is particularly important for custom-designed packaging where standard pricing doesn’t apply.
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Pricing
As is common with bespoke manufacturing services, Saxonpackaging.co.uk does not display explicit pricing on its website.
This is because the cost of custom packaging varies significantly based on numerous factors.
Businesses interested in their services must request a personalized quote.
Factors Influencing Packaging Costs
The price of custom corrugated packaging is a dynamic calculation, influenced by several key variables:
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Material Type and Board Grade: Mrtrendz.co.uk Reviews
- Single Wall vs. Double Wall vs. Triple Wall: Each offers different levels of strength and protection, impacting material cost.
- Flute Profile: Different flute sizes e.g., B-flute, C-flute, E-flute offer varying levels of crush resistance and printability.
- Kraft vs. Test Liner: Kraft paper is stronger and often more expensive than recycled test liner.
- Special Coatings/Treatments: Moisture resistance, anti-static, or food-grade coatings can add to the cost.
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Dimensions and Size:
- Larger boxes naturally require more material, increasing cost.
- Unusual shapes or very specific dimensions might require custom tooling, which can add a one-off charge.
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Quantity Ordered Economies of Scale:
- This is often the most significant factor. The higher the quantity, the lower the per-unit cost.
- Manufacturing setup costs plate creation for printing, machine setup are amortized over more units, making larger runs more cost-effective. For example, an order of 1,000 units will have a significantly higher per-unit price than an order of 10,000 units.
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Print Specifications:
- Number of Colors: More colors typically mean higher printing costs, especially for spot colors.
- Print Coverage: Full-color graphics or printing on all sides will be more expensive than simple one-color logos.
- Print Process: Flexographic printing is generally more economical for large runs, while digital printing is better for smaller runs and highly detailed graphics but can be more expensive per unit.
- Finishes: Gloss or matte varnishes, laminates, or special effects can add to the cost.
-
Die-Cutting and Tooling:
- Custom-shaped boxes or intricate designs require a cutting die. This is typically a one-off cost for the initial order, which can be significant, but is then reusable for subsequent orders.
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Design Complexity and Features:
- Quick Assembly Features: Designs that minimize assembly time can be more complex to engineer, potentially adding to the initial design cost but saving labor costs down the line.
- Inserts, Dividers, Internal Fittings: These add material and complexity, increasing overall cost.
- Handle Cut-outs, Windows: Require additional die-cutting and material removal.
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Delivery and Logistics:
- Shipping costs vary based on volume, weight, distance, and urgency.
Understanding the Value Proposition
While the lack of upfront pricing might seem inconvenient, it’s standard practice for custom packaging.
Saxon Packaging’s value proposition likely lies in their ability to provide tailored solutions that optimize for protection, branding, and operational efficiency, potentially leading to long-term savings despite the initial cost.
For instance, investing in quick assembly packaging might reduce labor costs by 15-20% for a business, yielding a rapid return on investment.
Similarly, robust beer packaging can significantly reduce product damage during transit, saving on replacement costs and maintaining brand reputation. Presscustomizr.com Reviews
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Customer Service and Support
Based on the information presented on their website, Saxonpackaging.co.uk emphasizes direct communication and expert assistance for their clients.
While a dedicated “Support” or “FAQ” section isn’t overtly highlighted, their approach seems to be one of personalized service.
Contact Channels
The primary contact method prominently displayed on the homepage is their phone number: 01502 513112. This indicates a preference for direct verbal communication, which is often beneficial for discussing complex custom packaging requirements.
Additionally, the “Request a quote” feature serves as a direct line to their sales and customer service team, allowing potential clients to submit detailed inquiries.
The mention of “Speak to our experienced team members today” further reinforces their commitment to providing expert guidance.
Expertise and Consultation
The website implies that their customer service extends beyond just order taking.
Their team members are described as “experienced,” suggesting they can offer consultation on:
- Design Optimization: Advising on the best structural design for a product’s protection and presentation.
- Material Selection: Guiding clients on the most suitable board grades and finishes for their specific needs and budget.
- Print Advice: Helping clients choose the most effective print processes and artwork considerations for their branding.
- Sustainability Solutions: Providing insights into environmentally friendly packaging options and how to integrate them.
- Cost Efficiency: Identifying ways to optimize packaging design for cost savings, such as through quick assembly features or material choices.
Post-Sale Support Inferred
While not explicitly detailed, a company of Saxon Packaging’s tenure founded in 1986 and affiliation with Smurfit Westrock Group plc would typically have robust post-sale support. This would include:
- Order Tracking: Information on the status of ongoing orders.
- Quality Assurance: Processes for addressing any issues with received products.
- Reordering: Streamlined processes for repeat orders.
- Technical Assistance: Support for any performance issues with the packaging.
The lack of a public knowledge base or extensive FAQ section suggests that their model relies more on direct interaction and personalized problem-solving rather than self-service, which can be an advantage for complex custom orders where nuanced discussions are often required.
For businesses seeking a collaborative partnership rather than a transactional relationship, this direct-access approach to experienced team members would be a positive. Iis-refunds.com Reviews
Saxonpackaging.co.uk Commitment to Sustainability
Saxon Packaging places a strong emphasis on sustainability, positioning it as a core value and a key selling point for their packaging solutions.
This aligns with the global shift towards more environmentally responsible business practices and consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
Core Principles of Their Sustainable Approach
The website repeatedly uses terms like “sustainable packaging solutions,” indicating a deliberate commitment to reducing environmental impact throughout their operations and product lifecycle.
While specific certifications or detailed reports are not immediately visible on the homepage, the general principles can be inferred:
- Renewable Raw Materials: Corrugated cardboard is inherently sustainable as it is made from renewable forest resources. The mention of “Smurfit Westrock Group plc” further reinforces this, as Smurfit Kappa part of the group is a leading proponent of sustainable forestry and responsible sourcing.
- Recyclability: Cardboard is widely recyclable, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to minimize waste and support a circular economy. Saxon Packaging’s focus on corrugated products directly contributes to this.
- Lightweighting and Efficiency: Sustainable packaging often involves optimizing designs to use less material while maintaining strength, reducing both resource consumption and transportation emissions. Features like “quick assembly packaging” can contribute to efficiency, which in turn has environmental benefits by reducing labor and potentially energy use.
- Minimizing Waste: Their bespoke solutions aim to create packaging that perfectly fits the product, reducing void fill and material waste.
- Lifecycle Thinking: While not explicitly stated, a comprehensive sustainable approach considers the entire lifecycle of the packaging, from material sourcing and manufacturing to distribution, use, and end-of-life recycling.
Impact on Product Offerings
The commitment to sustainability is woven into their product descriptions:
- “Sustainable drinks packaging that drives growth”: This highlights that sustainability is not just an environmental imperative but also a business advantage, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
- “Extraordinary sustainable packaging solutions to your exacting requirements”: This shows that customization does not compromise their environmental goals. rather, it’s integrated into the design process.
Broader Industry Context
The packaging industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices due to:
- Consumer Demand: A 2023 survey by Smurfit Kappa found that 82% of consumers consider sustainable packaging important.
- Regulatory Pressures: Governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations on packaging waste and material usage.
- Brand Reputation: Companies are increasingly aware that their packaging choices reflect on their brand image.
By emphasizing sustainability, Saxon Packaging positions itself as a responsible and forward-thinking partner for businesses that prioritize environmental stewardship.
The Role of Smurfit Westrock Group plc in Saxon Packaging
The affiliation with Smurfit Westrock Group plc is a critical aspect of Saxon Packaging’s identity and capabilities.
This relationship provides significant advantages in terms of resources, expertise, and market reach.
Smurfit Westrock: A Global Leader
Smurfit Westrock Group plc is a major international player in the paper-based packaging industry. Expressholidays.co.uk Reviews
Their operations span across numerous countries, providing a vast network of manufacturing facilities, design centers, and supply chain logistics. The group is known for:
- Scale and Capacity: As a large conglomerate, they possess immense manufacturing capacity, capable of handling large-volume orders and diverse packaging needs.
- Innovation and R&D: Significant investment in research and development, leading to innovative packaging solutions, material science advancements, and sustainable practices.
- Sustainable Sourcing: A strong commitment to sustainable forestry and responsible sourcing of raw materials, which aligns with Saxon Packaging’s emphasis on sustainability.
- Industry Expertise: Decades of experience across various sectors, providing deep insights into different market requirements and challenges.
Benefits of the Affiliation for Saxon Packaging
Being part of such a large and reputable group offers several strategic advantages to Saxon Packaging:
- Enhanced Resources: Access to Smurfit Westrock’s extensive material resources, cutting-edge machinery, and advanced technologies, which might not be accessible to independent manufacturers. This can translate to higher quality products and more efficient production.
- Broader Expertise Network: Collaboration with experts across the group in areas like design, materials science, logistics, and market trends. This collective intelligence can lead to more innovative and effective packaging solutions for Saxon Packaging’s clients.
- Supply Chain Stability: The backing of a global group provides a more stable and resilient supply chain, ensuring consistent access to raw materials even during market fluctuations. This reduces risks for clients regarding timely delivery.
- Credibility and Trust: The association immediately lends significant credibility and trust to Saxon Packaging. Clients can be confident they are working with a company that adheres to high industry standards and has robust financial backing.
- Market Reach Potential: While Saxon Packaging appears to focus on the UK market, being part of a global group could potentially open doors for servicing larger, multi-national clients or leveraging global best practices.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Smurfit Westrock has strong, well-documented sustainability programs. Saxon Packaging benefits from these group-wide initiatives, reinforcing their own commitment to eco-friendly practices without having to build them from scratch.
- Quality Control: Large groups often have stringent quality control protocols that trickle down to their subsidiaries, ensuring consistent product quality.
In essence, the Smurfit Westrock Group plc affiliation transforms Saxon Packaging from a regional player into a highly capable entity supported by global infrastructure and expertise.
This is a crucial differentiator and a strong indicator of their operational excellence and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of packaging does Saxonpackaging.co.uk specialize in?
Saxonpackaging.co.uk specializes in bespoke and standard corrugated cardboard packaging, with particular expertise in beer packaging, drinks packaging, and e-commerce solutions.
Is Saxon Packaging part of a larger company?
Yes, Saxon Packaging is part of the Smurfit Westrock Group plc, a major international player in the paper-based packaging industry.
How long has Saxon Packaging been in business?
Saxon Packaging was founded in 1986, indicating over three decades of experience in the packaging manufacturing industry.
Does Saxonpackaging.co.uk offer sustainable packaging options?
Yes, Saxonpackaging.co.uk explicitly emphasizes its commitment to providing “extraordinary sustainable packaging solutions.”
Can I get a custom-designed box from Saxonpackaging.co.uk?
Yes, they specialize in producing a wide range of “bespoke” custom cardboard packaging boxes and other corrugated products to exacting requirements.
How do I request a quote from Saxonpackaging.co.uk?
You can request a quote by clicking the “Request A Quote” button found in their main navigation or other prominent sections of their website. Poshtots.com Reviews
Does Saxonpackaging.co.uk provide quick assembly packaging?
Yes, they offer “Quick Assembly Packaging” designed to cut labor costs and speed up the entire packaging process.
What kind of print processes does Saxonpackaging.co.uk offer?
The website mentions “Print Processes” in its navigation, implying various printing options are available for customization, though specific details are not provided on the homepage.
Does Saxonpackaging.co.uk serve international customers?
Based on the .co.uk domain and UK phone number, their primary focus appears to be the UK market, but direct inquiry is recommended for international orders.
Are there customer testimonials available on their website?
Yes, the website features a testimonial from Cian Quilty of Sailor’s Home, praising their design translation and impact creation.
What is the benefit of quick assembly packaging?
Quick assembly packaging is designed to reduce labor costs and significantly speed up the packing process for businesses.
Does Saxonpackaging.co.uk handle packaging for alcoholic beverages?
Yes, they specifically highlight “Beer packaging” and “Drinks packaging solutions designed for Beer, Ale & Cider and other fermented beverages.”
What is the typical lead time for custom packaging orders?
Lead times are not specified on the website and would likely depend on the complexity, quantity, and current production schedule, requiring a direct quote request for specifics.
Can I see examples of their work on the website?
The homepage features images of various packaging types, including beer boxes and general corrugated cartons, as examples of their capabilities.
Do they offer design services for custom packaging?
While not explicitly stated as a separate service, their ability to “translate design potential into reality” and focus on “clever and intuitive design” suggests strong in-house design capabilities or collaboration with clients’ designers.
How does Saxonpackaging.co.uk support e-commerce businesses?
They offer “eCommerce Packaging” solutions specifically designed to boost brand recognition and enhance the customer unboxing experience for online retailers. Alertfirstaid.com Reviews
What industries does Saxonpackaging.co.uk serve?
They serve a range of industries, including beverage beer, drinks, e-commerce, and general manufacturing requiring bespoke or standard corrugated boxes.
Is there a minimum order quantity for custom boxes?
Minimum order quantities are typically required for custom packaging due to setup costs, but the specific threshold is not mentioned on the website and would be determined during the quote process.
How can I contact Saxonpackaging.co.uk directly?
You can contact them by calling 01502 513112 or by submitting a request through their “Request A Quote” form.
Does Saxonpackaging.co.uk have a blog?
Yes, the website includes a “Blog” section that features articles related to packaging trends, industry events, and company news.
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